Shoplifters is a gripping movie directed by Hirokazu Kore-eda. If you enjoyed his previous film Nobody Knows which also tackled the issues of poverty, this movie is right up that alley. It depicts a very realistic look into the lives of a rag-tag bunch.

The star of this film is definitely Sakura Ando, who deservingly won an award for “Outstanding Performance by an Actress in a Leading Role” through the 42nd Japanese Academy Prize ceremony that was held in March, 2019. I knew she was amazing actor going back to her role in Love Exposure but this movie definitely elevated her for me. I’m looking forward to seeing more from her going forward. Lastly, you can’t talk about acting from this film without applauding the performances from the child actors. They are the center of story from beginning to the end and will leave a lasting impression on you and touch your soul.

I highly recommend this movie to anyone that wants to try out a good Japanese film.

10/10